While Bali, Bangkok, and Chiang Mai are popular destinations amongst digital nomads working in Southeast Asia, there are many other cities with great long-term rental options.
Also read: The best digital nomad jobs to earn from anywhere in Southeast Asia
In this article, we've curated a list of some of these top cities and key factors to consider when looking for long-term rentals in Southeast Asia.
We took the following factors into account when selecting these cities as the top digital nomad cities for long-term rentals in Southeast Asia:
It's important that you live in a city with low living costs considering factors like rental prices, and everyday expenses such as dining, groceries and transportation.
High-speed internet and coworking spaces are non-negotiables for every digital nomad, so look out for these features when selecting cities.
One of the best parts of being a digital nomad is getting to enjoy the city and its attractions. So, this was a major consideration while curating this list. These cities have some of the most breathtaking coastlines, mountains and natural attractions in the world, with rich cultural experiences. They are also safe for foreigners to explore while working, ensuring the perfect work-life balance.
In no particular order, these are the best cities for long-term rentals in Southeast Asia
Chiang Mai is a dream destination for digital nomads, known for its serenity and affordable cost of living. With $300 to$500 per month, you can get quality long-term one-bedroom apartment rentals in places like Nimmanahaeminda, with beautiful cafes and coworking spaces or Old Town, with rich cultural sites and events. The city has reliable internet facilities to keep you connected with clients and maintain productivity. Coworking spaces like Punspace and Hub53 are readily available to provide the best working experience
Bali is reputed for its work-friendly environment and beautiful beaches. The city is not only a digital nomad destination but also a romantic hotspot that attracts thousands of tourists monthly. It offers a range of rental options, including shared villas and luxury beach houses. Monthly rent could range from $400 for budget-friendly options to $3,000 for luxury villas and beach houses which can be shared with other nomads. Canggu and Ubud are home to several coworking spaces with favorites like Dojo Bali, Outpost and Biliq.
The popular tourist attractions and activities you can can enjoy while working in Bali include:
Also read: Essential checklist for house hunting in Southeast Asia
In Manila, monthly rentals for decent one-bedroom apartments typically range from $400 to$700 in popular neighbourhoods, offering you affordable living options. However, if you're looking for more upscale options, there are expat-friendly neighbourhoods like Makati, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), and Ortigas, which generally range from $500 to $1,000 per month. There are also coliving spaces like Draper Startup House and CoLive that have listings for digital nomad-friendly living spaces that are even more affordable and have flexible lease terms.
Vietnam's most populous city, Ho Chi Minh (also known as Saigon), has a fast-growing tech ecosystem, making it a hub for start-ups, digital nomads, and expats. Situated at the heart of Southeast Asia, the city offers easy access to other destinations like Bali, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur.
Renting a modern apartment in popular districts like District 1 and District 2 typically costs around $800 to $1,500 monthly. For long-term rentals, studio or one bedroom apartments range between $300 to $500. District 1 is known for its excellent central cafes and coworking spaces, perfect for remote work while Thao Dien in District 2 is known for its expat-friendly green spaces.
Transportation within HCMC is relatively easy and affordable, with scooters and rideshare apps like Grab. The famous Ben Thanh market is your one-stop place for your needs.
Kuala Lumpur (KL) is easily one of Southeast Asia's top digital nomad cities for long-term rentals, offering diverse accommodation options, from one-bedroom apartments to co-living spaces. You can budget around $400-$800 per month for a comfortable living space. The city has high technological development and good internet access from anywhere.
KL is home to some popular coworking spaces, including Common Ground, WeWork, and WORQ. They offer fast internet, ergonomic workspaces, and community events ideal for networking and collaboration with other digital nomads.
If HCMC feels too busy, you will appreciate the more reserved Da Nang. The city offers affordable rental options, with one-bedroom apartments or studios ranging from $250 to $500 per month. These rentals are often located near the beach in vibrant areas like My An or quieter areas like Son Tra with mountain views.Luxury apartments are also available at competitive prices.
Getting around in Da Nang is easy and affordable, with scooters and rideshare apps being the most popular modes of transport. The city's growing expat community has resulted in a range of food options, from local Vietnamese foods to other international cuisines. You can find Western restaurants, pizzerias, and vegetarian-friendly cafes , especially in expat areas like An Thuong.
Phnom Penh might be less popular than other cities on this list. However, Cambodia's capital city is becoming a favourite destination for digital nomads, thanks to its great and remarkable nomadic experience. The city has a relaxed pace of life, with a rich culture and a low cost of living. You can get a one-bedroom apartment for as low as $250–$500 monthly.
BKK1 is a popular location among expats and digital nomads because it is central, compared to the Russian Market, which offers a more cultural vibe and budget-friendly options. . Workspace 1, Impact Hub, and The Desk are popular coworking spaces in Phnom Penh, providing reliable internet, comfortable seating, and a collaborative community.
There are many top digital nomad cities for long-term rentals in Southeast Asia. These cities offer a balance of affordability, digital nomad and expat communities, and access to resources, making them some of the best destinations for digital nomads looking for long-term stays in Southeast Asia. As you plan your next adventure, remember Grey is the key to reliable borderless transactions. Open a Grey account and get started today.
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